Every year hundreds of thousands of Canadians undergo surgical and non-surgical cosmetic enhancements, making these decisions based on available information. According to the most recent survey available by Medicard Finance Inc. and Plastic Surgery Statistics Canada, 72 percent surveyed stated that they would not hesitate to seek some type of cosmetic enhancement to change something they did not like about their appearance and 46 percent of respondents stated that they would consider surgery.
How Have We Made Cosmetic Enhancement Decisions To Date?
Most Canadians get their information about cosmetic enhancements from the mass media and by doing their own research. Eighty-six percent of participants watch reality TV shows on cosmetic enhancements and 23 percent often discuss cosmetic enhancement procedures with their friends, according to the survey. Eighty percent of respondents claimed they always check the credentials of the physician or practitioner and 79 percent of respondents stated that they would get more than one opinion before making a final decision. The decision about where to have the procedure done by is also influenced by the quality of the facility (for 93 percent of respondents), whether it is done in an office, clinic or hospital. The majority of Canadians (75 percent) consider the price of a treatment to be a factor. Canadians are clearly interested to obtain as much information as possible before making a decision to invest in a cosmetic procedure.
What is Vectra 3D Imaging?
Now Canadians will have customized information available to consider when making a decision about a cosmetic enhancement, based on new 3D imaging technology. Recently introduced in Canada, Vectra 3D Imaging is a new technology that enables patients to see how they would look with a surgical or non-surgical procedure they are considering. The process entails taking a three-dimensional photograph of the patient. The system uses 6 cameras to simultaneously take a patient photo from multiple angles. The images are then synchronized together to create a visual and virtual reconstruction. The high resolution photo capture assures the finest details are considered with high definition. Then, using the Sculptor software, the surgeon is able to simulate the anticipated results of the procedure; the simulation provides a basis for your surgical plan. More information about Vectra 3D Imaging is available from your plastic surgeon and online from Canfield Imaging Systems Inc. in New York City, U.S.A.
How Will 3D Imaging Help Me?
When your doctor uses 3D imaging technology, you will be able to view the proposed results of your cosmetic procedure in advance of the procedure itself, in the consultation phase. You will be able to compare your current features with the enhancements that the procedure can provide. The same technology can be applied for any cosmetic procedure, whether you are considering eyelid surgery, a brow lift/facelift, rhinoplasty, breast augmentation or another type of lift or enhancement. The software directly benefits you in making a decision about the procedure and it allows the surgeon to envision what to expect as well.
What Else Should I Know?
Before making a decision about a cosmetic procedure, it is important to learn about what the procedure entails, including the risks involved and whether a local or general anesthetic is used. Other important considerations are how long the procedure is, whether you can go home the same day or need to stay overnight, what the recovery process will be like, and if there are any future limitations as a result of the procedure. If what you learn is satisfactory, then you will need details, such as where the procedure will occur and when, what appointments before and after the procedure are needed, what the preparation and recovery entails, when payment is required and what methods of payment are accepted. A decision about undergoing a cosmetic enhancement should not be taken lightly. Fortunately, 79 percent of survey respondents were generally satisfied with the care they received.
